WASHINGTON – Howard University Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel has recently received major donations to support its educational mission.

On Sunday, Feb. 17, Howard alumnus and attorney Matthew Shannon presented a $50,000 donation to the Chapel during service. The donation included an additional $14,000 devoted to scholarships. Shannon, an original member of the Howard Gospel Choir and a Friend of the Chapel, said the purpose of the donation is to invest in and celebrate the legacy of Howard. As part of the gift, 14 members of the choir received a $1,000 scholarship for educational expenses. Shannon formed the scholarship in memory of his grandmother, Mabel Weston, and in recognition of his experience as a student and alumnus.

In a separate gift, Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer, Ph.D., senior pastor of Faithful Central Bible Church in Los Angeles, made a $10,000 contribution to support the Chapel and the 2013 Alternative Spring Break program. The Office of the Dean of the Chapel has coordinated the ASB volunteer program for the past 19 years.

“It is encouraging to know that our alumni and community appreciate and recognize the significant impact of Howard University in developing leaders,” said Bernard Richardson, Ph.D., dean of the Chapel. “Each contribution reflects the foundational mission and values of Howard University as a community committed to serving, giving and helping others achieve their potential.”

The Chapel also received the annual donation from the Artishia and Frederick Jordan Scholarship Fund. The fund provides eight full-tuition, one-semester scholarships for undergraduate students. The recipients of the Jordan Scholarship will be announced on March 24.